I fully understand. I have not been in the details of events like this and can appreciate the bigger picture without having to deal with all the details, which can certainly be frustrating when the media get it wrong.
The information that you are discussing did not come from the students at the event, but was collected from some other research or source. Most likely transferred between adults. Although some of the details were certainly wrong, the spirit of the day and the message from the President was “spot on”. We really need to look at the big picture.
I listened to every second of all of the student groups in the State Dining Room and I would ride an elevator with any of them. This was the most eloquent group of kids I have ever seen. The poise with which they interacted with the leader of our country was just inspiring. Every student conveyed to the President their passion for science and the love they had for their particular activity, whether they had worked in the family garage or traveled to an international competition.
We all certainly want the details to be accurate and it is frustrating when the press gets it wrong. But I believe that the mission of our visit was to convey the excitement of FLL, FTC, and FRC to the nation via the President. And when the President of the United States is playing with LEGOs and getting down on the floor to look inside of robots, then I would have to say “Mission Accomplished”.
Thank you for representing us all so well. Seeing that picture made me get a little teary eyed because I felt the same proud emotions that were on each of those kids faces even though I am miles and miles away. :*)
I cannot express enough thanks that you represented FIRST so perfectly.